Phase II of Reynolds Club project: Food options, new look for C-Shop

The University is continuing Phase II of renovations to Reynolds Club as part of its plan to increase space in the heart of campus dedicated to student use.

The renovation includes an extensive remodeling of the C-Shop, an expansion of Hutchinson Commons to include a new food area and the creation of more offices for student groups.

"The new renovation will create more space that students feel is truly theirs," said Bill Michel, newly appointed Director of the Office of Reynolds Club and Student Activities. "Like last year's improvements in Reynolds Club, the current renovation is based on what students have stated they want to see in a campus student center. We received a lot of help from the Campus Dining Student Advisory Committee and Student Government's Reynolds Club student advisory committee, CORSO. The students reviewed plans and offered a great deal of advice."

Work on the C-Shop involves adding a small stage for performances by student bands, poetry readings and other events. To be completed this fall, the new decor will have an antique feel, with a coffee bar, booths and seating that looks out at Hutchinson Courtyard.

Hutchinson Commons will feature an improved serving area offering grilled items, fresh pastas, stir-fry, a deli with fresh-baked breads, entrees and Taco Bell and Pizza Hut express stations, all managed by Aramark.

"We are excited about the improved quality of the food and diverse offerings that Aramark will provide while preserving the overall look and feel of the grand dining room," said Steve Klass, Director of Auxiliary Services. "The newly integrated and reorganized campus dining program will provide students more flexibility with the convenience of the Chicago Card and a 'flex' dollar program."

Under the new program, students on the University food plan will be able to use flex dollars to eat some of their meals in Hutchinson Commons and the C-Shop.

The undergraduate mailroom and additional basement areas are being converted to new office spaces, meeting rooms for student organizations and an expanded University Community Service Center. Students will now receive information from the University in the form of e-mail to their dorms, creating what Michel calls a "virtual mailroom." Extra computer space will also be made available, and during autumn quarter, replacement storage areas for will be built.

The goal for Reynolds Club "is to continue to offer a range of new lounges and study spaces as well as new offices for most of the student organizations on campus," Michel said. "The renovation is part of an overall effort on the part of the University to improve the quality of student life on campus."

Last year's Phase I renovation of Reynolds Club included a complete renovation of McCormick Tribune Lounge (formerly known as the North Lounge), featuring computer jacks for laptops and a selection of newspapers from around the country; a second-floor student lounge, coffee shop and game room in the space formerly occupied by Career & Placement Services; and the first phase of expanded office spaces for student groups. With the completion of Phase II, "Reynolds Club will truly be a hub for students and student organizations," Michel said.